Summer in Denver, CO, is a time for backyard barbecues, pool parties, and other outdoor fun. Between gardening, lawn care, and water play, the season is a high-use one for water. Before you finalize your summer plans, take the time to avoid letting outdoor plumbing woes cause water damage or high water bills that spoil your summer fun.
Understanding Outdoor Plumbing Systems
Although it may vary from house to house, an outdoor plumbing system is comprised of all the fixtures outside your home, including hoses, outdoor faucets, sprinklers, and any other gadgets that expel water. These components are important to summertime living, and it’s critical to stay aware of them. Improperly functioning outdoor plumbing may cause water pressure loss indoors.
Avoid costly repairs and extend the life of your entire plumbing system by maintaining your outdoor plumbing this summer.
Check Outdoor Faucets
Check the threading and handles on your outdoor plumbing for damage like leaks and cracks. If they squeak, try lubricating them with plumber’s grease. Make sure the shut-off valves are functioning as they should.
Inspect Your Sprinkler System
Keep your lawn green and pretty all summer with a well-functioning sprinkler system. If the sprinkler heads are clogged, they can’t rotate freely. Clearing away dirt and debris should do the trick. If sprinkler heads are misaligned, adjust them to avoid overwatering. Misaligned heads can result in uneven water distribution and cause part of your lawn to lose its vibrant color.
Check the timer on your sprinkler system so that you don’t waste water and run up your bill. Consider investing in a smart timer that is weather-sensitive and can adjust accordingly. If your system is very complex, have professionals service your sprinklers. This service may be included in your maintenance contract.
Check and Repair Hoses
Check garden hoses for damage or leaks. It may be possible to repair cracks and holes with a repair kit. However, if your hose is past patching, it’s probably time to replace it.
Check the bibs on all hoses and replace them if needed. If the bibs need replacing, purchase ones that can withstand the pressure of the hose. Finally, check all couplings to see if they need tightening.
Check and Service the Pool
A backyard pool is a treat to have in the summer. At the beginning of the season, your pool should be drained and the interior cleaned by a professional. They will check for cracks or leaks, refill the pool, and add the proper chemicals. Checking the water level will help avoid wasting water.
It’s important to see that the plumbing is up to par before use. A properly functioning pool pump will keep the pool clean and your energy bill down. Eliminate blockages and leaks by having the pumps and pipes professionally inspected.
Clear Gutters and Downspouts
You may associate caring for gutters and downspouts with roof maintenance, but they’re also an important component of your outdoor plumbing. Keep them clear of leaves, dirt, and debris to ensure optimal water flow. Leaves and dirt accumulating over time can cause a blockage and overflow. This leads to damage to your landscaping or possibly your home’s foundation.
Gutter guards can be installed to avoid debris buildup in the future. The water from summer rains will flow freely away from the foundation, and your home’s integrity will remain intact. This is a relatively affordable investment that can save you a lot of time and money in the future.
Check Outdoor Drains
If you have outdoor drains, clogging can be an issue, especially in areas that get heavy rains in the summer. Ensure that they stay free of leaves and debris. Neglecting them may result in water damage to your property. If you have a sloping landscape, water pooling is likely to occur. Keeping drains running free and clear will ensure you have a healthy landscape for the summer.
The typical increase in summer water usage can also stress your drainage system. Put having a professional plumber inspect and clean your outdoor drains on your list for summer outdoor plumbing maintenance. They know best how to clean drains and inspect the entire system for damage, such as cracks. A plumbing expert may use a technique called hydro jetting to clean the pipes’ interior walls. This method helps prevent future blockages by blasting away residue buildup.
Don’t Overlook Outdoor Showers
Outdoor showers are a great convenience and should be included in your summer plumbing maintenance plan. Have a professional check the showerhead, pipes, and valves. They will test the water flow and clean showerheads or replace them if necessary. They will also test for a consistent water flow. Just like your drains, ask about covers or filters to keep out dirt and debris.
Have the Septic Tank Inspected
Make sure your summer fun isn’t ruined by septic tank problems. Before the heat of summer sets in, get your septic system and drain field inspected by a professional to avoid leaks and blockages. Doing so will prevent backups and other plumbing issues. Also, consider having your tank pumped while you’re at it. Regular pumping is recommended to avoid overflows.
Install a Water Softener
Hard water can cause the buildup of minerals inside your pipes, which can lead to several plumbing issues, including leaks. Having a water softener installed by a professional will keep water flowing smoothly through the pipes all summer. Treated water will also prolong the life of your appliances.
Check the Main Water Valve
Do you know where your main water valve is? It’s important to know how to get to your main water shutoff quickly in case of an emergency, such as a burst pipe. In some homes, you’ll find a shut-off valve inside the garage, basement, or utility room. At other residences, the main water turnoff is outside, near a sidewalk, curb, or beside the water main in the street.
Part of your summer plan should include checking on the main water valve if it’s outdoors. If it’s in the yard, it could be covered by leaves, grass, or other debris.
Don’t leave home on your summer vacation without knowing exactly where your main water valve is and how to operate it. Turning it off is your best bet to avoid disastrous water damage if an appliance springs a leak or a pipe bursts.
If you have an outdoor pool or sprinkler system that always requires an open valve, you have the option to turn off the water supply at the location of your appliances. Have a friend or neighbor check on your property while you’re away to ensure that there aren’t any plumbing mishaps that are causing extensive damage.
Make sure your outdoor plumbing is ready for the busy summer season. Schedule an inspection with the professionals at Jim Needham Heating Cooling Plumbing and Drain in Denver. We can inspect and unclog drains, perform all plumbing repairs, install water softeners, install and service water tanks, and more. We can also install, maintain, and repair your heating and air conditioning system. Contact Jim Needham Heating Cooling Plumbing and Drain today to schedule an appointment today.
